As I work with my clients, I find that some make the choice to feed their babies formula. A popular choice among the families I work with is formula in the powdered state. Powdered formula is more economical and lasts longer than the pre-made, sterilized formula in the can. A common misconception (which is not helped by formula companies) is that powdered infant formula is a sterile product which it is not. What that means is even though infant formula is manufactured according to safe food handling guidelines, things can still happen in the factory or in the home which could contaminate the product inside. If the formula is not prepared properly, then the contaminates will be present and could cause illness in an infant. The World Health Organization issued guidelines for safe formula preparation which involves heating the water and powdered formula for a few minutes then cooling before giving to baby. This is a practice that I teach and also model in the homes of my families. If this is news to you, then don't feel bad. The back of your container of formula does not state this so how else would you know? To help you know more, I am including a link demonstrating the preparation of the powdered formula as well as the link to the WHO Guidelines for safe preparation.

Eno River Postpartum Doula, LLC"Supporting families in the fourth trimester"919-357-0371Enoriverppdoula@gmail.com

Suzanne Lee is a Postpartum Doula who supports families in the fourth trimester. Each family learns breastfeeding or bottle feeding basics, infant sleep and soothing and postpartum recovery measures. She also provides light household keeping, cooking and referrals to professionals in the area.Based in Durham, NC, She also serves the following areas in the Triangle: Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, Raleigh, Cary and Apex.